Gateron G Pro 3.0 White vs. Gateron Smoothie Silver
An in-depth look at the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When it comes to choosing a mechanical keyboard switch, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Smoothie Silver are two excellent options to consider. The G Pro 3.0 White is perfect for delicate typists looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force of 38g, providing effortless and sensitive keystrokes. It also offers bright RGB lighting and a satisfying auditory feedback, making it a premium typing experience without the high cost. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver is known for its lightning-fast actuation, thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and feather-light touch. Each switch has its own unique characteristics and advantages, so choosing between the two will depend on your specific preferences and needs. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
38g
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
45g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
1.20 mm
Total travel
4.00 mm
Total travel
3.40 mm
Factory lubed
Yes
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Standard
Stem construction
Standard
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
POM
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
POM
Mount type
Plate (3-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
20mm lengthened stainless steel spring
Spring
22mm extended double-stage spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Smoothie Silver, it is clear that they both offer unique characteristics that affect the sound profile of the switches. The G Pro 3.0 White boasts a polycarbonate top housing which creates a sharper, higher-pitched sound, while the Smoothie Silver features a POM top housing that produces a deeper and more muted sound. The contrast in sound profiles between the two switches can significantly impact the overall typing experience for users looking for a specific sound profile.
Additionally, the Nylon bottom housing of the G Pro 3.0 White and the POM bottom housing of the Smoothie Silver further differentiate the switches in terms of sound. The nylon housing of the G Pro 3.0 White contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile, while the POM housing of the Smoothie Silver offers a similarly deep sound but with a more muted quality. The combination of top and bottom housing materials in each switch creates a distinct sound profile that caters to different user preferences.
While the housing materials of the G Pro 3.0 White and the Smoothie Silver differ in composition and sound profiles, they ultimately provide users with a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences. Whether one prefers the sharper, higher-pitched sound of polycarbonate in the G Pro 3.0 White or the deeper, more muted sound of POM in the Smoothie Silver, both switches offer unique typing experiences. Despite the differences in housing materials, users can expect similar levels of quality and performance from both switches, ensuring that they will deliver satisfying results for a wide range of keyboard enthusiasts.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, we see some notable differences. The G Pro 3.0 White has a lighter actuation force of 38 grams compared to the Smoothie Silver's 45 grams, making the G Pro 3.0 White easier to trigger keystrokes. However, when it comes to bottom out force, the G Pro 3.0 White requires 45 grams to fully press down, while the bottom out force for the Smoothie Silver is unknown. Some users may prefer the lighter actuation force of the G Pro 3.0 White for extended typing sessions or gaming, while others may prefer the heavier actuation force of the Smoothie Silver for a more substantial typing experience. In terms of bottom out force, without the information for the Smoothie Silver, it is difficult to determine which switch would provide a firmer feel. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out force.
Travel distance
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch has a travel distance of 4 mm, which is considered a more traditional distance. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch has a shorter travel distance of 3.4 mm. Gamers often opt for shorter travel distances like the Smoothie Silver for quicker response times, while others may prefer the deeper and more satisfying feeling of the G Pro 3.0 White. Both switches offer different experiences based on their travel distances, with the G Pro 3.0 White being the longer option and the Smoothie Silver being the shorter option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches will depend on personal preference for travel distance.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Gateron G Pro 3.0 White has an MSRP of $3.40 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the G Pro 3.0 White for $3.27.
The Gateron Smoothie Silver has an MSRP of $3.00 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Smoothie Silver for $2.60.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch is known for its medium-high pitch with a satisfying auditory feedback. Described as clacky, these switches offer a sharp and snappy sound when pressed, providing a crisp and bright typing experience. On the other hand, the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch is not specifically described in terms of sound qualities, but being all-POM switches, they are likely to produce a thocky sound with a unique tone. Ultimately, the sound of a switch is also influenced by factors such as the keyboard's construction and keycaps used, so individual preferences may vary.
In terms of feel, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White switch is known for its incredibly light actuation force of 38g, offering effortless and sensitive keystrokes. Described as easy-to-press and feathery, these switches provide minimal resistance during key presses, reducing finger fatigue and making typing comfortable for extended periods. The Smoothie Silver switches, being all-POM with a short travel distance, are likely to provide an unparalleled smoothness and a feather-light touch, possibly offering a unique typing experience compared to traditional switches.
In conclusion, the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch offer distinct qualities in terms of sound and feel. The G Pro 3.0 White switch provides a clacky sound and a creamy, easy-to-press typing experience, perfect for delicate typists seeking a premium feel. On the other hand, the Smoothie Silver switches likely offer a thocky sound and a smooth, feather-light touch, ideal for users looking for lightning-fast actuation. Depending on individual preferences for sound and typing feel, both switches offer unique qualities that cater to different user needs. Ultimately, while each switch provides its own characteristics, users can expect a satisfying typing experience from both the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White and the Gateron Smoothie Silver switches.
Conclusion
To sum up, when deciding between the Gateron G Pro 3.0 White linear switch and the Gateron Smoothie Silver linear switch, it ultimately comes down to your typing preferences. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option with a light actuation force and a satisfying auditory feedback, then the G Pro 3.0 White would be the ideal choice for you. On the other hand, if you prefer lightning-fast actuation, a thocky sound, unparalleled smoothness, and a feather-light touch, then the Smoothie Silver switch would be more suitable for your needs. Consider your typing style, desired typing experience, and budget when selecting between these two switches.
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